On the last day of this retreat we provided a foot- washing service. We wanted these young leaders to personally experience the love and humility of Jesus which He demonstrated to His disciples in His final moments in the world. Rather than only using our words, each of our mission team got down on their knees and washed the feet of each of the leaders in our small groups. One incredible testimony of the impact came immediately after when several of the young leaders asked our permission to provide a foot-washing ceremony for the kitchen staff who had worked such long hours to feed our group. Of course, permission was granted and we did this additional foot-washing for the cooking team. What a joy to see the young leaders hear and respond so quickly based on the model of humility and service demonstrated by Jesus!
Many of these leaders have been through traumatic life experiences including abusive parents, lack of jobs, living in extreme poverty, broken relationships, etc. Our team of pastors and Christian counselors provided one on one counseling time for as many as desired this. Ask the Lord to empower these leaders to heal from their past and to find the strength in Jesus to forgive. One of the greatest miracles we have seen has been the number of young leaders who have shared that they learned to practice forgiveness toward others who have harmed them. As a result, they are experiencing a new joy in the Lord that was not possible before they let God soften their hearts. Pray for these leaders as they take the lessons of forgiveness we have shared and pass it on to others. Click on this video above to hear one beautiful testimony about the power of God to help a young woman forgive.
